Getting to know Kelvin.

Recently Graham Mitchell caught up with Kelvin to ask him a few important questions.

Kelvin joined the Tanners in the summer of 2024 from South Park and has been virtually an ever present in the back line ever since. He has made more than 60 appearances to date and has two goals to his name including the spectacular strike last season against Met Police. 

Age: 23

Nationality: Born in England, Parents are both from Angola

Football Career: I grew up in Croydon but I spent majority of my youth career (u10 – u16) at Lambeth Tigers. A well ran grassroots football club based in Brixton, London. We played in a county league as well as having the privilege to play against professional academies on a regular basis. 

I finished my youth career at Redhill. I represented Redhill in the FA Youth Cup, trained with the first team regularly and made the bench a few times before COVID stopped all football.

When football resumed in 2020, my senior career began with Carshalton Athletic playing in the Isthmian Prem league. Football was then stopped again in December due to another lockdown.

I spent a couple years playing football at university before returning back to non league at South Park in the Isthmian South Central division. I stayed until the summer of 2024 leaving with a Surrey Senior Cup winners medal.

I’m currently in my second season at Leatherhead and it’s been excellent since I walked through the doors, I’ve picked up Joint Managers Player of the Season so far and I hope to win more as a team and individually.

How are you enjoying life at the Grove? – I’m loving my time so far here at Leatherhead. I’m playing regularly which is the most important thing for me and with such great supporters, playing good football and winning is the minimum at The Grove.

Growing up, which players or sports people generally did you take inspiration from? 

My childhood hero growing up were Lewis Hamilton and Cristiano Ronaldo

What other sports do you think you are good (or bad) at? – I’m bad at golf but I think I’m a good swimmer. I came 1st and won a medal against other schools. I still swim today when I can.

You’re hosting a dinner party this weekend. Which three celebrities are invited, and why? – I’ll invite Lewis Hamilton. He’s the GOAT in F1 and I’d want to know how he became successful. 

Eddie Murphy – Funny and I think he’ll bring good energy to the table. 

Tems – I like her music, she could sing us some exclusive songs and talk about her career.

Do you have any pre match rituals or superstitions? – I’d say getting to a ground as close to meet time as possible, I’m not the biggest fan of getting to places early.  Also, a couple tuck jumps and pogo jumps before kick-off. Just to activate the lower body muscles.

Do you have a nickname? – Kelv. I haven’t heard anything else since playing football.

What is your Karaoke song of choice?– I don’t have a song of choice but if I was to pick one, Jhené Aiko – The Worst.

In your dreams, which team would you play for?– Manchester United 

What shows, podcasts or series are you currently watching or listening to? – Right now I’m listening to Chatterbox Chronicles podcast, From My Left podcast.

I’m waiting for the new season of Gangs of London and The Apprentice to be released. 

What is the highlight of your football career to date? – My highlights so far are, playing at Selhurst Park (my local club), winning Surrey Senior Cup, winning Joint Managers Player of the Season

What’s your favourite app on your phone?– TikTok, it’s so addictive. Videos can be funny, educational or relatable.

Finally, do you have a message for the Leatherhead supporters? – Your continuous support home and away never goes unnoticed. I’m always happy to speak to anyone and everyone at the club. I’ll always give 100% when I put on the Leatherhead kit. I look forward to putting in good performances throughout the season as well as contributing with one or two goal of the season contenders. 

When we achieve our objective at the end of the season, I’ll be sure to celebrate with you all associated with the club. Up the Tanners!!!